Mangaluru: A female PhD student from Mangalore, Karnataka, has been missing for eight days, prompting concerns and speculations. Hindu organizations have labeled it as a potential case of love jihad. The 27-year-old student was last seen leaving her hostel in Derlakatte on February 17th, and her Activa scooter has been located by the police.

According to reports, a Muslim man named Shahrukh from Puttur, who allegedly visited the student’s paying guest accommodation in Mangalore, is suspected to be involved. Some individuals also claim Shahrukh is a drug smuggler. Bajrang Dal has filed a complaint, alleging love jihad, and called for an investigation.

The incident reportedly occurred in the Ullal police station region of Mangalore, with the missing girl’s relative filing a complaint. Chitra’s father, Prakash Hebber, filed the missing report. Chitra, a PhD student at a private institute in Mangalore, was known for her academic excellence and received a monthly scholarship of Rs 40,000.

Chitra’s roommate in the paying guest house raised the alarm about her disappearance. On February 17th, Chitra went to Suratkal to withdraw Rs 40,000 from an ATM. After withdrawing the money, she took a bus to another district, leaving her scooter near the ATM. Chitra, staying at her uncle’s residence for studies, had called someone in Bengaluru according to unverified reports.

While Bajrang Dal frames it as love jihad, there are suspicions of the accused being a drug smuggler. Shahrukh is thought to have visited Chitra, possibly offering drugs. Police are actively investigating all relevant aspects, hoping to locate Chitra soon. Bajrang Dal demands immediate arrest, while police continue their probe.

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